One question that has puzzled many dog owners is whether dogs know when another dog is dying. Some research has been conducted on this topic, and the results about how dogs deal with the incoming loss of a canine buddy are quite interesting. But it’s still impossible to know exactly how dogs perceive and interpret another dog dying.
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the topic of whether dogs can sense death remains a fascinating area of study. Expert sources like How Animals Grieve and Lost Companions give some insight into this topic and help form a good idea of what dogs may understand about another dog passing.
So, Do Dogs Know When Another Dog Is Dying?
We don’t know for sure if dogs know when other dogs are dying, but they usually do know when another dog is sick or injured, and they are aware of another dog’s absence after death, often leading to grieving behavior. Dogs have an acute sense of smell and can detect changes in the body odor of other dogs. When a dog is sick or dying, their body chemistry changes, which can result in a change in their scent.
This change in scent can be detected by other dogs, which may cause them to behave differently around the sick or dying dog. The dog can also pick on the sick dog’s behavioral changes like disinterest and weakness.
In the video below, a Rottweiler appears to be grieving the loss of his dead brother. We do not know how much he understands about death, or if he understands it the same we do, but it is clear his dead brother is causing him significant distress.
Most owners know that their dogs know when they’re dying and a dead dog can lead to severe grief in a household that affects everyone, including other dogs. So if you know somebody whose dog has passed be sure to read our article on what to send somebody grieving their dead dog.
However, studies and experts like Wendy Smith Wilson, DVM, debunk this belief by stating that disorientation and instinct because they can no longer protect themselves are more compelling reasons dogs hide when they’re dying.
Still, is it possible that dogs know when another dog is dying?
After all, it seems that dogs know when humans are sick. So, they probably know when another dog is sick too.
Dogs may exhibit signs of distress or mourning when a companion passes away. But, knowing exactly how much dogs understand about death and whether they know their buddy won’t be coming back is inconclusive.
Ways Dogs Know That Another Dog Is Dying
Dogs are pack animals that are very in tune with their family members including other dogs. This means that they are aware of changes in other dogs that could mean death, including any odd behavior such as circling before dying.
Smell
One of the key factors that may contribute to a dog’s ability to sense when another dog is dying is their sense of smell. Dogs have a highly developed sense of smell that allows them to detect changes in hormones, pheromones, and other chemicals that other animals release.
This may allow them to pick up on changes in the body odor of a sick or dying dog, which could signal to them that something is wrong. Studies show this highly tuned sense of smell also helps dogs sniff out cancers, blood sugar levels, and emotional states as service dogs.
Behavioral Changes
Another factor contributing to a dog’s ability to sense when another dog is dying is their social nature. Dogs are highly social animals that form strong bonds with other dogs and their human companions. This social nature may allow them to pick up on subtle changes in the behavior and demeanor of other dogs, which could signal that they are sick or dying.
Instinct
In the wild, dogs are pack animals, and the pack’s survival is crucial. This is why wolf studies and observations show that they lick an injured pack member’s wounds to keep them clean and regurgitate food for those who cannot hunt for themselves. This means dogs may react more intensely to sick and dying dogs than other animals and species.
While there is no definitive answer to the question of whether dogs can sense when another dog is dying, there is ample anecdotal evidence to suggest that they may have this ability.
However, it is important to note that not all dogs may be able to sense when another dog is dying, and other factors may influence their behavior and reactions.
Dog’s Perception of Death
Dogs are known for their ability to sense and respond to environmental changes. This includes changes in the behavior and health of other dogs in their pack or social group. While it is not fully understood how dogs perceive death, there is evidence to suggest that they are able to recognize when another dog is dying.
It is important to note that not all dogs will respond to the death of another dog in the same way. Some dogs may become withdrawn or depressed, while others may continue to play and interact as usual. Additionally, the way that a dog perceives death may depend on its individual personality, as well as its relationship with the dying dog.
Ultimately, it’s true that dogs will understand that there’s something wrong with their mate if it’s sick and dying. However, whether they grasp the magnitude of death and how long it takes for them to heal after losing a pack member is still unknown.
Understanding Dog Behavior
Dogs are social animals and have a unique way of communicating with each other. They use their body language, vocalizations, and scents to convey different messages. Dogs can sense changes in their environment and the behavior of other dogs. When a dog is dying, other dogs in the pack or community may react in different ways, which we get to in the next section.
It is important to note that not all dogs will react the same way when another dog is dying. Each dog has a unique personality and past experiences that shape their behavior. Some dogs may descend into deep despair, while others may not even seem to notice. However, understanding dog behavior can help pet owners provide support and comfort to their pets during difficult times.
Signs a Dog May Sense Another Dog’s Illness or Death
The following are some signs that may indicate a dog is aware that another dog may be sick or dying.
Changes in Behavior
One of the most common signs that a dog may sense another dog’s illness or impending death is a behavior change. Several behavioral changes can occur in dogs as and after another dog dies, including:
1. Becoming Depressed
Dogs become more withdrawn and quiet, spending more time sleeping or lying down than usual. In case your dog responds by getting depressed, you can read our article on how to help a depressed dog.
2. Clinginess
Others may become more clingy or protective of their sick or dying pack member, refusing to leave their side or becoming agitated when separated from them. They will lick and nuzzle them or simply lay next to them.
3. Avoiding the Dog
Other dogs may become more aggressive or fearful and avoid the dying dog. This behavior may be due to the dog’s past experiences or temperament and a lack of understanding of what’s happening.
4. No Reaction at All
Some dogs seem to act like everything is fine, even when they sense that something is wrong with the other dog. If this is your dog, it’s important to remember that the dog has bonded with you instead of the dying dog, and is not being a heartless canine.
5. Some Even Get “Excited” or Challenging the Dying Dog (Including Fighting)
If a dying dog constantly overpowered the other dog, the other can appear to lighten up a little. This is because the other dog is lethargic and doesn’t exert the usual level of control. You may also see the younger and healthier dog become to bully or even fight with an older dying dog. This is common when pack hierarchy starts to change and the healthy dogs sees a chance to assert themselves by taking advantage of the dying dog’s weakness.
Appetite Changes
Another sign that a dog may sense another dog’s illness or impending death is a change in their eating habits. Dogs may lose their appetite or become picky eaters when they sense that a pack member is sick or dying. They may also become more interested in the sick or dying dog’s food, trying to eat it themselves or drive the sick dog away from it.
Exhibiting Physical Signs
They may sniff or lick the sick or dying dog more often than usual as if trying to comfort them or understand what is happening. They may also become more vocal, whining or howling in response to the sick or dying dog’s distress.
While it is impossible to know for sure what dogs are thinking or feeling, these signs suggest that they may be able to sense when another dog is sick or dying. By paying attention to these signs, owners can comfort and support their furry friends during difficult times.
A Dog’s Grieving Process
Dogs are social animals and form strong bonds with their pack members, including other dogs. When a dog in the pack dies, the other dogs may experience grief and display signs of mourning. While dogs may not understand the concept of death, they can sense the absence of their companion and react to it.
The grieving process in dogs can vary depending on the individual dog and their relationship with the deceased dog. Some dogs may become withdrawn and show signs of depression, while others may become more clingy and seek comfort from their human or canine companions. Some dogs may even display physical symptoms, such as loss of appetite or lethargy.
It’s essential to provide support and comfort to a grieving dog. Spending extra time with them, providing extra attention and affection, and maintaining a consistent routine can help them cope with the loss. It’s also essential to monitor the grieving dog’s behavior and seek professional help if necessary.
Overall, while dogs may not fully understand the concept of death, they can experience grief and display signs of mourning when a pack member dies. Providing support and comfort to a grieving dog can help them cope with the loss and move forward.
How to Help Your Dog Cope
Losing a fellow dog can be difficult for your furry friend. Here are some ways to help your dog cope with the loss of a companion:
Provide Extra Attention
Your dog may feel lonely after the loss of a companion. Spend more time with your dog and give them extra love and attention.
Maintain Routine
Keeping your dog’s routine consistent can help them feel more secure. Stick to their regular feeding and exercise schedule.
Provide a Safe Space
Create a comfortable and safe space for your dog to retreat to. This can be a cozy bed or crate where they can feel secure.
Introduce New Companionship Slowly
If you plan on getting a new dog, introduce them to your current dog slowly. Give your dog time to adjust to the new companion.
Consider Professional Help
If your dog is having trouble coping with the loss, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
By providing extra attention, maintaining routine, providing a safe space, introducing new companionship slowly, and considering professional help, you can help your dog cope with the loss of a companion.
You can read our article on what to do when your dog dies for a guide on how you will cope with the loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can a dog smell another dog’s scent?
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and can detect scents far beyond our human capabilities. The length of time a dog can smell another dog’s scent depends on various factors, such as the weather, wind direction, and the strength of the scent. Generally, dogs can detect the scent of other dogs for several hours to days, depending on the conditions.
Can dogs sense when a cat is dying?
Dogs have a keen sense of smell and can detect changes in the body’s chemistry, indicating illness or death. However, whether dogs can sense when a cat is dying is still debated among experts. Some suggest that dogs can pick up on subtle changes in a cat’s behavior or scent that indicate illness or incoming death.
Do dogs say goodbye before they die?
No scientific evidence suggests that dogs have a concept of death or that they say goodbye before they die. However, some pet owners have reported that their dogs exhibited unusual behavior in the days or hours leading up to their death, such as becoming more affectionate or withdrawn. It’s unclear whether these behaviors result from the dog’s awareness of their impending death or simply a response to their physical discomfort.
Can a dog sense when a human is dying?
Dogs have been known to sense changes in their owner’s behavior and health, including changes that may indicate a person is dying. Some dogs have been trained to detect medical emergencies such as seizures, low blood sugar, or even cancer. Therefore, they can sense subtle chemical changes showing a human is dying.
How long do dogs remember other dogs?
Dogs have a remarkable memory and can remember other dogs for months or even years, depending on the strength of the bond between them and the frequency of their interactions. However, the length of time a dog remembers another dog can vary depending on the individual dog and the circumstances surrounding their relationship.
Also see out article on if dogs miss their puppies.
How do you help a dog cope with the loss of another dog?
Losing a companion can be difficult for dogs, just as it is for humans. To help a dog cope with the loss of another dog, it’s important to provide them with plenty of love and attention, maintain their routine as much as possible, and give them time to grieve. Some pet owners find that introducing a new dog into the household can help ease their dog’s loneliness. In contrast, others prefer to wait until their dog has fully processed their grief before considering a new companion.
Final Thoughts
while there is no definitive answer to whether dogs can sense when another dog is dying, there is evidence to suggest that they can pick up on changes in behavior and scent that may indicate something is wrong. It is important to remember that each dog is unique and may react differently to a dying companion.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.